What every gastroenterologist needs to know about common anorectal disorders

Unmet needs in treating itch: reaching beyond eczema

PURPOSE

Pruritus is an unpleasant sensation that creates the urge to scratch. In many chronic conditions, relentless pruritus and scratching perpetuates a vicious itch-scratch cycle. Uncontrolled itch can detrimentally affect quality of life and may lead to sleep disturbance, impaired concentration, financial burden, and psychological suffering. Recent strides have been made to develop guidelines and investigate new therapies to treat some of the most common severely pruritic conditions, however, a large group of diseases remains underrecognized and undertreated. The purpose of this article is to provide a comprehensive review of the challenges hindering the treatment of pruritus.

METHODS

An online search was performed using PubMed, Web of Science, Google Scholar, and ClinicalTrials.gov from 1994 to 2024. Included studies were summarized and assessed for quality and relevance in treating pruritus.

RESULTS

Several barriers to treating pruritus emerged, including variable presentation, objective measurement of itch, and identifying therapeutic targets. Itch associated with autoimmune conditions, connective tissue diseases, genodermatoses, cutaneous T-cell lymphoma, and pruritus of unknown origin were among the etiologies with the greatest unmet needs.

CONCLUSION

Treating pruritus poses many challenges and there are many itchy conditions that have no yet been addressed. There is an urgent need for large-scale controlled studies to investigate potential targets for these conditions and novel therapies.

Anal pruritus: Don’t look away

Anal pruritus is a common anorectal symptom that can significantly impair a patient’s quality of life, including their mental health. It can be one of the most difficult proctological conditions to treat. Patients often delay seeking medical attention, since it is an embarrassing but non-life-threatening situation. Pruritus ani can be associated with idiopathic and secondary causes, such as anorectal diseases, cancer (anal or colorectal), dermatological and sexually transmitted diseases, fungal infections and systemic diseases. If patients are referred for a colonoscopy, this can sometimes provide the first opportunity to evaluate the perianal area. Classifications of anal pruritus are based on the abnormalities of the perianal skin, one of the most commonly used being the Washington classification. A proper digital anorectal examination is important, as well as an anoscopy to help to exclude anorectal diseases or suspicious masses. Endoscopists should be aware of the common etiologies, and classification of the perianal area abnormalities should be provided in the colonoscopy report. Information on treatment possibilities and follow-up can also be provided. The treatment normally consists of a triple approach: proper hygiene, elimination of irritants, and skin care and protection. Several topical therapies have been described as possible treatments, including steroids, capsaicin, tacrolimus and methylene blue intradermal injections.

Comparison of the efficacy and safety of different surgical procedures for patients with hemorrhoids: a network meta-analysis

PURPOSE

This study used a network meta-analysis to evaluate the efficacy and safety of different surgical approaches in patients with hemorrhoids.

METHODS

PubMed, Embase, Web of science, and Cochrane Library were searched for randomized controlled trials on patients with hemorrhoids treated by different surgical procedures. The search was conducted until January 15, 2023. Two investigators independently screened the resulting literature, extracted information, evaluated the risk of bias of the included studies, and performed a network meta-analysis.

RESULT

A total of 23 randomized controlled studies were included and involved 3573 patients and 10 interventions, namely L (Ligasure), M-M (Milligan-Morgan), F (Ferguson), H (Harmonic), OH (open Harmonic), CH (closed Harmonic), PPH (procedure for prolapse and hemorrhoids), TST (tissue selecting technique), T-S (TST STARE+; tissue selection therapy stapled transanal rectal resection plus), and STARR (stapled transanal rectal resection). Network meta-analysis results showed that L has the shortest mean operating time and STARR has the longest mean operating time, F and H have the longest length of hospitalization and T-S has the shortest length of hospitalization, PPH has the most intraoperative blood loss and L has the least intraoperative blood loss, TST has the shortest time to first defecation and M-M has the longest time to first defecation, STARR had the least recurrence and PPH had the most recurrence, PPH had the least anal stenosis and L had the most anal stenosis, and F had the least postoperative pain after 24 h and PPH had the most postoperative pain after 24 h.

CONCLUSION

Current evidence suggests that L is best at reducing mean operative time and intraoperative bleeding, T-S is best at reducing mean length of stay, TST has the shortest time to first defecation, STARR is best at reducing recurrence rates, PPH is best at reducing postoperative anal stricture, and F is best at reducing postoperative pain after 24 h.

The Effect of High Altitude on Short-Term Outcomes of Post-hemorrhoidectomy

Background Hemorrhoids are caused by the distal displacement of the hemorrhoidal cushions and venous distention. Hemorrhoidal illness is still a prevalent issue. Hemorrhoidal symptoms affect 5% of the general population and 50% of people over the age of 50. Surgical therapy ensures satisfactory results that are much better than those obtained with conservative treatments, particularly for grade III and IV hemorrhoids. Objectives This study aims to compare postoperative complications of hemorrhoidectomy among patients who live in a high-altitude region (Taif) and a sea-level (low-altitude level) region (Jeddah). Methods This retrospective study was conducted among patients who underwent hemorrhoidectomy between January 2019 and January 2022 in Taif and Jeddah, Saudi Arabia. Simple random sampling was used to select the study population, and data were collected from patient files. Data analysis was conducted using IBM SPSS Statistics for Windows, version 23.0 (IBM Corp., Armonk, NY). Results A total of 135 patients were included in this study. Most of our patients were males (73.3%). Patients from Jeddah represented more than half of the study population, and 45.2% were from Taif. The majority of low-altitude area patients require less than a week to return to normal activities (54.1%), whereas the majority of high-altitude area patients (59%) require more than a week (P = 0.047). 94.1% of participants felt pain on Day 1, and 54.1% had pain on Day 7. According to our findings, approximately one-fourth of patients (25.2%) developed recurrent hemorrhoids, and 27.4% experienced recurrent hemorrhoid symptoms. When we compared low-altitude regions and high-altitude regions in postoperative complications of hemorrhoidectomy, we found that urinary retention was most common in the high-altitude regions (37.7%). Conclusion Our results found that urinary retention was the most common complication in the high-altitude region. Early return to regular activity with less postoperative pain on Day 7 was a significant finding among low-altitude area patients.

Accuracy of magnetic resonance imaging in defining dentate line in anal fistula

Purpose

To retrospectively assess the accuracy of magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) in defining dentate line in anal fistula.

Materials and methods

Seventy patients with anal fistulas were assessed by dynamic contrast-enhanced MRI. The distance from the dentate line to the anal verge for all patients was measured by MRI. To mitigate interference, 35 patients with anal fistulas whose internal openings were located on the dentate line were excluded from this study. Two observers independently judged the positional relationship between the internal opening and the MRI-defined dentate line, and compared with the results observed by surgeon to assess the accuracy.

Results

The distance between the MRI-defined dentate line and the anal verge depended on the location of the internal opening and the morphology of the anal canal mucosa. The distance based on the location the internal opening and the morphology of the anal canal mucosa was 18.2 ± 8.1 mm and 20.0 ± 5.3 mm on oblique coronal T2WI, respectively. Compared with the results observed by the surgeon, the accuracy of evaluating the positional relationship between the internal opening and the dentate line from the morphology of the anal canal mucosa on MRI exceeded 89.9%. Taking 18.2–20.0 mm as the distance between the dentate line and the anal verge on the MRI image, the accuracy of evaluating the relationship between the position of the internal opening and the dentate line was over 85.7%. Considering both the dentate line and the anal canal mucosa, the accuracy of evaluating the relationship between the internal opening and the dentate line was over 91.5%. The results of MRI-defined dentate line were in good agreement with the results of intraoperative surgeon evaluation, and the κ values were 0.70, 0.63, and 0.78, respectively.

Conclusion

MRI has high accuracy in defining the dentate line in anal fistulas.

Functional constipation in patients with hemorrhoids: a systematic review and meta-analysis

Hemorrhoids are common anorectal pathology, with high recurrence rates after surgical treatment. It is hypothesized that high straining forces during paradoxical contractions and inadequate relaxation are causally related to hemorrhoids. This review aimed to assess the coprevalence of functional constipation and dyssynergic defecation in a population with hemorrhoids. Moreover, the effects of rubber band ligation (RBL) were analyzed. Sources included Pubmed, Embase and CENTRAL . Randomized trials, cohort and case-control studies that investigated the prevalence of constipation in patients with hemorrhoids or the prevalence of hemorrhoids in patients with constipation compared to healthy subjects were included. Manometric studies were also eligible. Quality assessment was performed by using the Newcastle Ottawa Quality Assessment Scale. The primary outcome was the prevalence of functional constipation or dyssynergic defecation in patients with hemorrhoids. Nineteen studies were included. Prevalence of constipation was significantly higher in patients with hemorrhoids compared to controls [OR (odds ratio), 2.09; 95% CI (confidence interval), 1.27-3.44]. No significant difference in the prevalence of hemorrhoids between patients with constipation compared to controls was found (OR, 2.37; 95% CI, 0.67-8.44). Anal pressures in patients with hemorrhoids were significantly higher compared to healthy controls in all manometric studies. After RBL, these pressures remained significantly higher in patients with hemorrhoids ( P  = 0.001). Functional constipation, dyssynergic defecation and higher basal anal pressures are more prevalent in patients with hemorrhoids compared to controls. Improvement of therapy for functional constipation, especially dyssynergic defecation patterns, might lead to better long-term outcomes and reduce recurrence.

A Pain in the Butt: Hemorrhoids, Fissures, Fistulas, and Other Anorectal Syndromes

Painful and bothersome anorectal syndromes can be a diagnostic and therapeutic challenge for clinicians because structural and functional abnormalities may often coexist and require a multidisciplinary approach to management. Although it is often difficult to attribute all of a patient's anorectal symptoms to a singular disorder with definitive intervention and cure, improving quality of life, treating coexistent conditions such as functional constipation and/or defecation disorders, addressing psychological comorbidities if present, and confirming there is no evidence of inflammatory or malignant conditions are top priorities.

Ambulatory seton placement followed by fistulotomy: efficacy and safety for perianal fistula treatment

PURPOSE

To evaluate the efficacy and safety of ambulatory seton placement followed by superficial fistulotomy as treatment of perianal fistula.

METHODS

Retrospective observational analysis of patients with cryptogenic perianal fistula aged 18-90 years, followed in a central hospital proctology consultation between 2006 and 2017. Data were obtained through clinical record's analysis. Fistula was characterized, using Parks Classification. A probe was passed through the fistula tract, followed by a seton, which remained in situ until superficial fistulotomy was possible.

RESULTS

Ninety-six patients were included (66.67% males, mean age 56 ± 15 years old). Nineteen patients (19.89%) had previous history of perianal fistula and 14 (14.58%) previous anorectal surgery. Seventy-four patients (78.72%) were submitted to fistulotomy, three (3.19%) had seton fistulotomy and one had no seton progression. Intention-to-treat and per-protocol efficacy analyses were 80.2 and 98.7%, respectively. Among the 74 patients who completed the procedure, type of fistula and time with seton were distributed as followed: 47 (63.51%) intersphincteric fistula (15 ± 31 weeks), 26 (35.14%) transsphincteric fistula (32 ± 47 weeks), one (1.35%) suprasphincteric fistula (11 weeks). Previous fistula was associated with a longer time with seton (P = 0.018). Incontinence was reported in two (2.7%) patients, who had previous perianal fistula or anorectal surgery. Two patients (2.7%) had recurrence after fistulotomy.

CONCLUSION

Placement of seton followed by superficial fistulotomy in an ambulatory setting is a safe and effective method for simple low perianal fistula treatment. Incontinence rate may be higher in patients with previous perianal fistula or anorectal surgery.

Socio-demographic factors and lifestyle behaviors associated with symptomatic hemorrhoids: Big data analysis using the National Health insurance Service-National Health screening cohort (NHIS-HEALS) database in Korea

OBJECTIVE

The prevalence of hemorrhoids has been reported to be 7-14%. However, there have been no large-scale studies. This study aims to investigate the incidence of hemorrhoids in Korea by analyzing big data and to find the associated risk factors.

METHODS

This was a retrospective analysis using the Health Insurance Cohort database of the National Health Insurance Corporation of Korea in 2002-2015. The study was divided into two models: the diagnostic (DM) and surgical model (SM). Socio-demographic and lifestyle behavioral characteristics were analyzed as risk factors.

RESULTS

Overall, 467,567 participants were included. The incidence density of hemorrhoids was 13.9 and 5.7 per 1000 person-years in the DM and SM, respectively. Hemorrhoids occurred more frequently in men and metropolitan areas in both models. The incidence was highest in the 40s. The incidence rates were highest in the high income, smoking, alcohol and the exercise group of 1-4 times a week in both models. The adjusted hazard ratio (HR) was higher in men and decreased with increasing age. It was higher in the metropolitan area. The high-income level and alcohol consumption were risk factors in the DM and SM, respectively. The HR of the exercise group was higher than that of the non-exercise group in both models.

CONCLUSIONS

The diagnostic and surgical incidence density was 13.9 and 5.7 per 1000 person-years, respectively. Hemorrhoids occurred most frequently in men in their 40s. The metropolitan area, high income level and alcohol consumption were associated with an increased frequency of hemorrhoids.

Clinical Outcomes and Effectiveness of Laser Treatment for Hemorrhoids: A Systematic Review

BACKGROUND

Laser treatment is increasingly used in the treatment of symptomatic hemorrhoids, and several studies have attempted to describe its clinical outcomes. In this systematic review, we aimed to comprehensively analyze the clinical outcomes and effectiveness of laser treatment.

METHODS

We performed a systematic review of currently available data on laser treatment for hemorrhoids. We searched MEDLINE and Google Scholar between January 2009 and May 2020. Studies that described the clinical outcomes and effectiveness of laser treatment were selected based on pre-specified inclusion criteria with a minimum follow-up period of 3 months. Qualitative synthesis of the clinical outcomes, effectiveness and complications was performed.

RESULTS

Nineteen studies including 1937 patients were analyzed. The majority were males (n = 1239) and included grade 2 and 3 hemorrhoids. In the majority (n = 1750, 90.34%), the 980 nm wave length diode laser was used as the energy source. Doppler-guided localization was performed in six studies (n = 579, 29.89%). All studies (n = 1937) reported low postoperative pain scores and nine studies (n = 1131) showed significantly lower pain compared to open technique. Furthermore, six studies (n = 1023) showed significantly less intra- and postoperative bleeding compared to open technique. Seven studies (n = 1052) reported long-term follow-up results and were found to be satisfactory in terms of symptom relief and recurrence. This study was limited by heterogeneity of outcomes precluding a meta-analysis.

CONCLUSION

Laser treatment had acceptable clinical outcomes for grade 2 and 3 hemorrhoids with lower rates of postoperative pain and bleeding with satisfactory long-term outcomes.

Acupuncture therapy for postoperative pain of anorectal diseases: A systematic review protocol

BACKGROUND

The incidence of anorectal diseases has been increasing year by year, and the acupuncture treatment for postoperative pain of anorectal diseases has the excellent therapeutic effect. Currently, there are no relevant articles for systematic review.

METHODS

We will search the randomized controlled trials related to acupuncture therapy and postoperative anorectal diseases from inception to January 2020. The following database is our focus area: PubMed, EMBASE, Springer, EBSCO, Web of Science, Cochrane, Controlled Trials Register (CENTRAL), the Cochrane Central Register of Controlled Trials (CENTRAL), China National Knowledge Infrastructure (CNKI), Wan-Fang Database and Chinese Scientific Journal Database (VIP database). The primary outcome is the pain of visual analogue scale (VAS). The secondary outcomes are the Symptom Checklist, Wong-Baker Faces Pain Rating (WB) Scale, verbalrating scale (VRS), and 36-Item Short Form Health Survey (SF-36) scale. We will use Review Manager Software (RevMan) V.5.2 for data analysis and quantitative data synthesis. The Cochrane collaborative tool will be used to assess the risk of bias in the included studies.

RESULTS

Given the available evidence, this study will provide high level results for acupuncture therapy in treating postoperative pain of anorectal diseases.

CONCLUSION

The conclusions of this study will provide evidence for whether acupuncture is effective in treating postoperative pain of anorectal diseases.

PROSPERO REGISTRATION NUMBER

CRD42020150015.

Anal fissure management by the gastroenterologist

PURPOSE OF REVIEW

Anal fissures are very common. They are easy to diagnose and treat in the office setting. They may coexist with hemorrhoids. In fact 20% of patients with hemorrhoids have anal fissures also. The purpose of this review is to highlight current diagnosis and treatment of anal fissures using diet, ointments and botulinum toxin to enable healing. Medical treatment relies on reducing anal sphincter spasm to allow improved blood flow and healing.

RECENT FINDINGS

Many anorectal disorders can be managed in the office. Most anal fissures can be managed without the need for surgery. The need for anorectal examination, including use of anoscopy is stressed in the current literature. The use of calcium channel blockers in preference to nitroglycerin is highlighted as well as the use of botulinum toxin when ointments don't work.

SUMMARY

Anal fissure can be managed nonsurgically most of the time and gastroenterologists should be able to manage them. This article should help in preventing unnecessary surgery and its complications, mainly incontinence in a small but significant number. The search for more effective drugs and options for managing this disorder continues.

Perianal Infections in Children With Acute Myeloid Leukemia: A Report From the Canadian Infection in Acute Myeloid Leukemia Research Group

Among 235 children with acute myeloid leukemia, 17 experienced 19 perianal infections. Among 12 episodes with definite abscess, 75% were severely neutropenic. Sixteen diagnostic imaging evaluations were performed; diagnostic yield was similar between computerized tomography of pelvis (5 of 10) and ultrasound (3 of 5). Consistent management approaches to perianal infection should be developed.

Photodynamic Therapy for the Treatment of Complex Anal Fistula

BACKGROUND AND OBJECTIVES

To validate and analyze the results of intralesional photodynamic therapy in the treatment of complex anal fistula.

STUDY DESIGN/MATERIALS AND METHODS

This prospective multicentric observational study enrolled patients treated for complex anal fistula who underwent intralesional photodynamic therapy (i-PDT). The included patients were treated from January 2016 to December 2018 with a minimum follow-up of 1 year to evaluate recurrence, continence and postoperative morbidity. Intralesional 5-aminolevulinic acid (ALA) gel (2%) was injected directly into the fistula. The internal and external orifices were closed. After an incubation period of 2 hours, the fistula was irradiated using an optical fiber connected to a red laser (Multidiode 630 PDT) operating at 1 W/cm for 3 minutes (180 J).

RESULTS

In total, 49 patients were included (61.2% male). The mean age was 48 years, and the mean duration of fistula was 13 months. Of the fistulas included, 75.5% were medium transphincteric, and 24.5% were high transphincteric. The median fistula length was 4 ± 1,14 cm (range: 3-5). A total of 41 patients (83.7%) had a previous history of fistula surgery. Preoperatively, some degree of anal incontinence was found in 5 patients (10.2%). No center reported any other procedure-related complications intraoperatively. Phototoxicity was found in one patient. In the first 48 hours after the procedure, fever was reported in 2 patients (4%). At the end of follow-up, total healing was observed in 32/49 patients (65.3%). No patient reported new incontinence postoperatively.

CONCLUSION

i-PDT could be considered a good choice in patients with complex anal fistulas to avoid surgery and its complications. Lasers Surg. Med. © 2019 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.

Pathophysiology of internal hemorrhoids

Hemorrhoidal disease is a fairly common and debilitating clinical entity. Despite centuries’ of attempts to shed light on its pathophysiology, to cure those affected and to improve sufferers’ quality of life, many aspects of the disease remain elusive. Individual beliefs and historical legends, accompanied by undocumented theories, have established and perpetuated the confusion regarding the mechanisms leading to the development of the disease and the rules governing its treatment. Hemorrhoids are classified as internal or external and are viewed as a disease when they become symptomatic. Returning to basic medical sciences, this mini-review focuses on internal hemorrhoids and aims to define the histology and anatomy of the normal and abnormal internal hemorrhoidal plexus and to encourage clinicians to comprehend the pathophysiology of the disease. If doctors can understand the pathophysiology of hemorrhoidal disease, they will be able to clarify the nature of the associated symptoms and complications and to make the correct therapeutic decision.

An investigation into the effect of biofeedback on urinary and fecal incontinence in patients with anal sphincter dysfunction

Introduction:

Fecal incontinence refers to the inability to control bowel movements, causing feces to leak unexpectedly from the rectum. People suffering from this disorder are emotionally distressed. This problem causes social degradation, anxiety, fear, and social isolation. The present study aimed to evaluate the effect of biofeedback (BFB) on fecal incontinence in patients with anal sphincter abnormalities in 2017.

Methods:

This quasi-experimental study was performed on 30 patients with fecal incontinence, referring to the gastroenterology clinic of Taleghani and Mehrad hospitals. Patients were first evaluated by Wexner criteria and then, with the aid of a manometer, information was obtained on the amount of sphincter muscle tone, squeeze pressure, and rectal sensation. Manometric results and Waxner's questionnaire were compared before and after BFB. Data were analyzed using SPSS (version 20).

Findings:

In this study, 18 women and 12 men were studied. There was no significant relationship between fluid intake, fiber, exercise, sex, and incontinence (P < 0.05). According to Wuxner's components, the sphincter muscle tone increased significantly after BFB in patients. The total score of the squeeze pressure increased significantly after the BFB application (P < 0.05). The mean total score of rectal sensation (individual awareness of rectal contents) decreased after the BFB application.

Conclusion:

In addition to the fact that it can improve incontinence in patients with anal sphincter abnormalities, BFB is also helpful for patients whose sphincter and rectum are not seriously affected and only show incontinence symptoms.

Anorectal symptoms during pregnancy and postpartum: a prospective cohort study

AIM

The aim was to determine the prevalence and risk factors of anal symptoms prepartum and postpartum.

METHOD

A prospective observational cohort study was carried out in Ghent University Hospital, Belgium. Ninety-four pregnant women between their 19th and 25th week of pregnancy were included. An anal symptom questionnaire was filled in at four different times: in the second and third trimester, immediately postpartum and 3 months postpartum. Descriptive data were obtained from patient files. A proctological diagnosis was presumed on the basis of combined symptoms (i.e. rectal bleeding, anal pain and swelling). Constipation was defined by the Rome III criteria. Risk factors were identified using multivariate analysis.

RESULTS

Sixty-eight per cent of the patients developed anal symptoms. The most prevalent symptom was anal pain. Constipation was reported by 60.7% during the study period. Seven women (7.9%) suffered from faecal incontinence. The most prevalent diagnoses were haemorrhoidal thrombosis (immediately postpartum), haemorrhoidal prolapse (in the third trimester and immediately postpartum) and anal fissure (not episode related). The two independent risk factors for anal complaints were constipation, with a 6.3 odds ratio (95% CI 2.08-19.37), and a history of anal problems, with a 3.9 odds ratio (95% CI 1.2-13). The Bristol Stool Chart was shown to be a reliable indicator in pregnancy and postpartum as significant correlations were observed in all study periods.

CONCLUSION

Two-thirds of pregnant women have anal symptoms during pregnancy and postpartum, especially haemorrhoidal complications and anal fissure. The most important risk factor is constipation. The prevention of constipation in pregnant women is therefore highly recommended.

Polidocanol Foam Injected at High Doses with Intravenous Needle: The (Almost) Perfect Treatment of Symptomatic Internal Hemorrhoids

Background and Aims

Hemorrhoid disorders are common. This study aimed to assess the efficacy and safety of polidocanol foam injected at high doses with intravenous needle for the treatment of symptomatic internal hemorrhoids that prolapse or bleed.

Methods

We evaluated 2,000 consecutive patients with prolapsed hemorrhoids (grades II/III/IV) recruited over 6 years. Foam injection was performed in one to four sessions with polidocanol 2%: 10 mL of the mixture (2 mL liquid plus air) or 20 mL (4 mL liquid plus air). The number of sessions and amount of foam injected depended on initial hemorrhoid size, compliance to receive foam, and clinical response. The mixture, prepared using a three-way tap connected to two 10/20-mL syringes, was injected immediately after preparation using an intravenous needle. The primary endpoint was self-reported satisfaction without major complications at 4 weeks.

Results

Efficacy was very high, with 1,957 patients (98%) reporting satisfaction regarding blood loss control and prolapse reduction. The procedure was well tolerated: 1,838 patients (92%) presented mild/no pain. Objective reduction of prolapse volume was documented in 86% of reobserved cases. Complications were rare and usually minor: only 3 cases of clinically significant bleeding (0.15%), 2 of whom were on dual antiplatelet therapy plus oral anticoagulation, 2 cases of rectal abscess, 8 hemorrhoid thromboses, and 1 urinary retention requiring catheter (0.7% severe complications).

Conclusions

Treatment of internal hemorrhoids with polidocanol foam injected in high doses is very effective and safe for the control of blood loss and prolapse, even for patients on anticoagulation/antiplatelet treatment.

Effect of acupuncture on post-hemorrhoidectomy pain: a randomized controlled trial

Objectives

To observe the clinical efficacy and safety of electroacupuncture (EA) in relieving pain after hemorrhoidectomy treatment for mixed hemorrhoids.

Design

This was a randomized controlled trial.

Methods

We conducted a single-center, single-blind, and randomized controlled clinical trial. Seventy-two patients with mixed hemorrhoids who had undergone hemorrhoidectomy were randomly assigned to the following 2 groups: the EA treatment group (EA) received surround needling with EA (n=36), and the control group received sham acupuncture (SA) treatment (n=36). The treatment was conducted within 15 min after the completion of the surgery and lasted for 30 min. The pain intensity was recorded by using the visual analog scale as the primary outcome. Secondary outcomes were verbal rating scale and Wong-Baker Faces Pain Rating. These measurements were evaluated at 11 time points: once every hour in the first 8 h after the treatment, 24 and 48 h after the treatment, and at the first defecation. Besides, quality of life was measured by Symptom Checklist-90 Scale at 24 and 48 h follow-ups.

Results

The EA group had significantly lower visual analog scale scores at the 3 time points of 6, 24 h, and during the defecation (p<0.05). Verbal rating scale showed a significantly lower score in the treatment group compared to the SA group at 4 h after the treatment as well as during defecation (p<0.05). The Wong-Baker Faces Pain Rating scores of EA group were significantly lower at 5, 7, and 8 h after treatment and during defecation (p<0.05) compared with those of SA group.

Conclusion

Acupuncture is effective in alleviating postoperative pain in patients who have undergone hemorrhoidectomy.

Management of Common Benign Anorectal Disease: What All Physicians Need to Know

Benign anorectal conditions produce anal pain, rectal bleeding, or discharge from the perianal region, which are highly prevalent symptoms in the general population. Hemorrhoidal disease, anal fissure, perianal abscess, proctalgia syndromes, and pruritus anii are the most common clinical disorders. Well-trained physicians, irrespective of their specialty, can treat most of these disorders and refer them to a specialist in proctology only when necessary. The aim of this review is to provide a practical guide to the management of benign anorectal disorders in terms of their initial management and the criteria for specialist referral.

MRI of anal canal: common anal and perianal disorders beyond fistulas: Part 2

A broad spectrum of disease, from benign processes to life-threatening pathologies, can cause anal pain. MR imaging (MRI) has become increasingly widely used method over the past two decades for the evaluation of individuals with anorectal symptoms. Although imaging is rarely necessary to determine the etiology of the majority of cases, MRI is particularly useful as a noninvasive method of excluding severe neoplastic conditions. In this article, MRI findings of a number of pathologies such as anal and perianal neoplasms, hemorrhoidal disease, arteriovenous malformation of the perianal region, and anal sphincter lesions (defects, scarring, atrophy) which may lead to fecal incontinence are presented.

Hemorrhoids: what are the options in 2018?

PURPOSE OF REVIEW

Efforts continue to improve the treatment of patients with symptomatic hemorrhoidal disease by interventions designed to improve efficiency and effectiveness, including by reducing intraoperative and postoperative pain, decreasing operating times, minimizing blood loss and controlling symptoms and recurrence rates. Simultaneously, there are also renewed efforts to minimize the number of patients who will require procedural intervention by focusing on conservative measures that encourage better bowel regulation and habits. The purpose of this brief report is to review the current status of the diagnosis and treatment of patients with hemorrhoidal disease. Overall, new procedures or procedural refinements to existing techniques continue to be introduced with promising short-term outcomes - at least in some instances. In most instances, long-term follow-up or equivalency data are still being accumulated such that a definitive, unequivocal answer to what is truly the best alternative to traditional hemorrhoidectomy remains controversial. One of the challenges is heterogeneity as regards diagnosis, intervention and, especially, outcomes measures such that comparing therapies is too difficult. A recent initiative to standardize metrics has promise.

RECENT FINDINGS

Recent studies largely appear to suggest that conservative treatment approaches and managing patient expectations are critically important in which a primary objective should be to minimize the progression to symptomatic disease and complications in patients who are diagnosed with hemorrhoids. The pace of change as regards the development of new or improved surgical techniques appears may be accelerating.

SUMMARY

Progress is being made and the knowledge base is being expanded as regards the treatment options for patients with hemorrhoids and expected outcomes. A key initiative to standardize the approaches to diagnosis and treatment about staging, procedural interventions and outcomes will facilitate comparative analytics, if successful.

Perianal abscess mimicking levator ani syndrome: a case report and approach to the differential diagnosis of anorectal pain

OBJECTIVE

To present the clinical management and comprehensive differential diagnosis of a patient with anorectal pain from a perianal abscess.

CLINICAL FEATURES

A 41-year-old woman presented with pain localized to her perianal and gluteal region, accompanied by internal and external rectal pain. Prior to presentation, the patient had received a working diagnosis of levator ani syndrome.

INTERVENTION AND OUTCOME

An interdisciplinary management approach was utilized. Diagnostic imaging confirmed the clinical suspicion of a perianal abscess and the patient underwent surgical drainage.

SUMMARY

Anorectal pain is complex and multifactorial and a diagnosis such as an abscess should not be overlooked. This case emphasized that practitioners must be diligent in their evaluation and management of patients with anorectal pain, including recognizing situations that require further imaging and interdisciplinary management.

The Evaluation and Office Management of Hemorrhoids for the Gastroenterologist

PURPOSE OF REVIEW

Hemorrhoid disease is extremely common, and seldom requires surgical intervention. The vast majority of patients can be cared for in the office setting and by the gastroenterologist. This piece aims to summarize the epidemiology and pathophysiology of hemorrhoid disease, along with the proper evaluation and office-based treatment of these patients.

RECENT FINDINGS

Most GI fellowship training programs spend little time on these topics, and the recommendation has been made to include anorectal care in the GI's "core curriculum." The use of the anoscope and a proper anorectal examination are keys to evaluating these patients, and the techniques available to treat these patients are described. Often overlooked in these patients are other anorectal issues that occur alongside hemorrhoidal issues very commonly-the most common being anal fissure. Comprehensive management of all of these issues will allow all but the most severely affected patients to avoid the expense and morbidity of surgical intervention. The anatomy, etiology, pathophysiology, diagnosis, and non-surgical treatment of hemorrhoid disease are presented with the gastroenterologist in mind.

Efficacy of egg yolk and nitroglycerin ointment as treatments for acute anal fissures: A randomized clinical trial study

Background

Acute anal fissure as a common disease in society has several etiologies and manifestations such as severe anal pain and bleeding. Nitroglycerin ointment 0.2% is the most common topical treatment used. The most common side effect of nitroglycerin is headache, which is annoying for patients and often leads to discontinuation of the drug.

Objective

Comparison of egg yolk as a natural substance with analgesic and anti-inflammatory properties and minimal side effects with nitroglycerin ointment in the treatment of acute anal fissure.

Methods

This randomized clinical trial was carried out during a 10-day period in the Gastroenterology clinic of Ghaem Hospital, Mashhad, Iran (year 2015). 126 patients who filled the inclusion criteria were enrolled. The patients were randomly divided into two groups. Nitroglycerin ointment (0.2%) was applied by patients in the first group, twice daily for 10 days. For the second group, one egg yolk once a day was administered rectally up to 10 days. The pain and bleeding severity were recorded every two days up to 10 days after finishing the treatment course, based on visual scale

Results

The results showed that egg yolk caused a significant reduction in pain and bleeding compared with nitroglycerin (p<0.05). At the beginning of the study, the difference in pain intensity between the two groups was not statistically significant (p-value = 0.25). However, it became significant in the following days. Changes in the frequency of rectorrhagia were also significant in both groups, showing a major decrease in the number of rectorrhagia cases (p<0.001).

Conclusion

Egg yolk is more efficient than nitroglycerin in the treatment of acute anal fissure. In addition, lack of any side effects results in the completion of the treatment course by the patients.

Trial Registration

The trial was registered at the Iranian Registry of Clinical Trials (http://www.irct.ir) with the Irct ID: IRCT2015050718915N3.

Funding

This work was supported by a grant from the Vice Chancellor of Research of Mashhad University of Medical Sciences.

A Randomized Controlled Trial Comparing Suture-Fixation Mucopexy and Doppler-Guided Hemorrhoidal Artery Ligation in Patients with Grade III Hemorrhoids

Background. We aimed to evaluate the effectiveness of a suture-fixation mucopexy procedure by comparing with Doppler-guided hemorrhoidal artery ligation (DGHAL) in the management of patients with grade III hemorrhoids. Methods. This was a randomized controlled trial. One hundred patients with grade III hemorrhoids were randomly assigned to receive suture-fixation mucopexy (n = 50) or DGHAL (n = 50). Outcome assessments were performed at 2 weeks, 12 months, and 24 months. Assessments included resolution of clinical symptoms, postoperative complications, duration of hospitalization, and total costs. Results. At 2 weeks, one (2%) patient in suture-fixation group and four (8%) patients in DGHAL group had persistent prolapsing hemorrhoids. Postoperative bleeding was observed in two patients (4%) in suture-fixation group and one patient in DGHAL group. There was no significant difference in short-term recurrence between groups. Postoperative complications and duration of hospitalization were comparable between the two groups. Rates of recurrence of prolapse or bleeding at 12 months did not differ between groups. However, recurrence of prolapse at 24 months was significantly more common in DGHAL group (19.0% versus 2.3%, p = 0.030). Conclusions. Compared with DGHAL, the suture-fixation mucopexy technique had comparable short-term outcomes and favorable long-term outcomes.

Surgical treatment of hemorrhoids: a critical appraisal of the current options

INTRODUCTION

Surgical treatment of hemorrhoids is still a dilemma. New techniques have been developed leading to a lower rate of postoperative pain; however, they are associated with a greater likelihood of recurrence.

AIM

To review current indications as well as the results and complications of the main techniques currently used in the surgical treatment of hemorrhoidal disease.

METHODS

A systematic search of the published data on the options for treatment of hemorrhoids up to December 2012 was conducted using Medline/PubMed, Cochrane, and UpToDate.

RESULTS

Currently available surgical treatment options include procedure for prolapse and hemorrhoids (PPH), transanal hemorrhoidal dearterialization (THD), and conventional hemorrhoidectomy techniques. Excisional techniques showed similar results regarding pain, time to return to normal activities, and complication rates. PPH and THD were associated with less postoperative pain and lower complication rates; however, both had higher postoperative recurrence rates.

CONCLUSION

Conventional surgical techniques yield better long-term results. Despite good results in the immediate postoperative period, PPH and THD have not shown consistent long-term favorable results.

Recent advances in the management of hemorrhoids

Hemorrhoids are considered one of the most common anorectal diseases with a prevalence of 4.4% up to 36.4% of the general population, and a peak incidence between 45 and 65 years. Hemorrhoidal disease presents with a prolapsed lump, painless bleeding, discomfort, discharge, hygiene problems, soiling, and pruritus. Sliding anal canal lining theory is the most accepted theory as a cause of hemorrhoidal disease; however, it is also associated with hyper-vascularity, and, recently, with several enzymes or mediators involved in the disintegration of the tissues supporting the anal cushions, such as matrix metalloproteinase. A comprehensive search in published English-language literature till 2013 involving hemorrhoids was performed to construct this review article, which discusses advances in the management of hemorrhoids. This includes conservative treatment (life style modification, oral medications, and topical treatment), office procedures (rubber band ligation, injection sclerotherapy, infrared and radiofrequency coagulation, bipolar diathermy and direct-current electrotherapy, cryosurgery, and laser therapy), as well as surgical procedures including diathermy hemorrhoidectomy, LigaSure hemorrhoidectomy, Harmonic scalpel hemorrhoidectomy, hemorrhoidal artery ligation, stapled hemorrhoidopexy (SH), and double SH. Results, merits and demerits of the different modalities of treatment of hemorrhoids are presented, in addition to the cost of the recent innovations.

Medical student recognition of benign anorectal conditions: the effect of attending the outpatient colorectal clinic

Background

Benign anorectal conditions are fairly common. Physicians of various specialties usually see patients with these conditions before being referred to colorectal specialists, frequently with an incorrect diagnosis.

We sought to evaluate the effect of attending an outpatient colorectal clinic by medical students on the diagnostic accuracy of these conditions.

Methods

Over a 1-year period, medical students were randomized into a group that attended the clinic, and one that did not. Both groups were shown images of six common benign anorectal conditions. The overall diagnostic accuracy as well as the diagnostic accuracy for each one of these conditions was prospectively evaluated for both groups.

Results

Nineteen students attended clinic and 17 did not. Overall diagnostic accuracy was 80.6% for students attending clinic and 43.1% for non-attending students. (p < 0.05) In the attending group, diagnostic accuracy was significantly greater for prolapsed internal hemorrhoids (73.6% versus 35.2%, p < 0.05), thrombosed external hemorrhoid, (73.6% versus 17.6%, p < 0.05) fissure (100% versus 47%, p < 0.05), and anal tags (68.4% versus 11.7%, p < 0.05%).

Conclusion

Exposure to these conditions during surgical clerkships in medical school may help future specialists provide better care for patients with benign anorectal disorders.

Medicinal plants used for cardiovascular diseases in Navarra and their validation from official sources

ETHNOPHARMACOLOGICAL RELEVANCE

This paper provides significant ethnopharmacological information on plants used to treat cardiovascular diseases in Navarra, Spain.

MATERIAL AND METHODS

Information was collected using semi-structured ethnobotanical interviews with 667 informants (mean age 72; 55.47% women, 44.53% men) in 265 locations. Official sources such as the European Scientific Cooperative on Phytotherapy (ESCOP), German Commission E, World Health Organization (WHO), European Medicines Agency (EMA), European Pharmacopoeia (Ph. Eur.) and Real Farmacopea Española (RFE) monographs were consulted in order to establish the therapeutic efficacy of the reported uses and to obtain further details about quality and safety aspects. A literature review was carried out on the plants that were most frequently cited and were not the subject of a monograph, using a new tool developed by the University of Navarra, UNIKA.

RESULTS

A total of 460 pharmaceutical uses were reported by the informants, belonging to 90 plant species and 39 families, mainly represented by Urticaceae, Rosaceae, Asteraceae, and Equisetaceae. The most frequently used parts of the plants were the aerial parts followed by leaves and flowers. Seventeen out of 90 plants (19%) and 208 out of 460 popular uses (45%) had already been pharmacologically validated in relation to their therapeutic efficacy and safety aspects.

CONCLUSIONS

The authors propose to validate five species for their use in cardiovascular diseases: Rhamnus alaternus L., Potentilla reptans L., Equisetum telmateia Ehrh., Centaurium erythraea Rafn and Parietaria judaica L.

A new minimally invasive treatment for anal fistula

In colorectal surgery, eradicating the fistula and maintaining continence are still complex challenges for a colorectal surgeon. A minimally invasive method using a novel device was performed to consecutively treat 14 patients with anal fistula from August 2008 to November 2009. After a follow-up period of 36 months, 13 patients achieved successful closure of their fistula tracts, and recurrence occurred only in one patient. Recurrence was due to the delay of dressing change. No patient had interference with continence, and no major intra- and postoperative complications were identified. Using the novel device with invasive methods can be a promising alternative for managing anal fistulas.

Common anorectal conditions: evaluation and treatment

Anorectal conditions are frequently encountered clinical entities but are often misunderstood and misdiagnosed. Although the most common anorectal disorders are not considered life threatening, they can negatively impact patients' activities of daily living and quality of life. Comprehensive anorectal examination, including the use of anoscopy, has become a "lost art," and graduate medical education programs should utilize more formal training in this area. This review discusses the comprehensive anorectal exam and the diagnosis and management of three common anorectal disorders: hemorrhoids, anal fissure, and pruritus ani.

Glyceryl trinitrate ointment did not reduce pain after stapled hemorrhoidectomy: a randomized controlled trial

Medications, including topical 0.2% glyceryl trinitrate (GTN), can reduce anal spasm and pain after excisional hemorrhoidectomy. GTN after stapled hemorrhoidopexy was compared with routine postoperative management. Patients with symptomatic grade 3/4 hemorrhoids were recruited. After stapled hemorrhoidopexy, residual perianal skin tags were excised as appropriate. Those requiring double purse-string mucosectomy were excluded. Postoperative pain, pain duration, and complications were assessed. One hundred ten patients (74 men; mean age 50.6 years) were enrolled in the control group and 100 patients (57 men; mean age 49.8 years) in the GTN group. Maximum pain was higher in the GTN group (P  =  0.015). There were no differences between the two groups in residual perianal skin tags requiring excision, postoperative complications, recurrence rates, follow-up period, average pain, duration of pain, or satisfaction scores. Sixteen GTN patients were noncompliant due to side effects. None had persistent perianal skin tags. GTN did not reduce postoperative pain after stapled hemorrhoidectomy.

Anal fissure and stenosis

Anal fissure is a common anorectal disorder resulting in anal pain and bleeding. Fissures can either heal spontaneously and be classified as acute, or persist for 6 or more weeks and be classified as chronic, ultimately necessitating treatment. Anal stenosis is a challenging problem most commonly resulting from trauma, such as excisional hemorrhoidectomy. This frustrating issue for the patient is equally as challenging to the surgeon. This article reviews these 2 anorectal disorders, covering their etiology, mechanism of disease, diagnosis, and algorithm of management.

Anorectal abscess during pregnancy

Anorectal symptoms and complaints caused by hemorrhoids or anal fissures are common during pregnancy. It is known that one-third of pregnant women complain of anal pain in the third trimester. Anal pain may be caused by a wide spectrum of conditions, but if it begins gradually and becomes excruciating within a few days it may indicate anorectal abscess. We experienced a case of anorectal abscess during pregnancy which was diagnosed by magnetic resonance imaging and treated by incision and seton drainage at 36 weeks of gestation, followed by a normal spontaneous delivery at 38 weeks of gestation. To our knowledge, this is the first case report of anorectal abscess during pregnancy in the English-language published work. The clinical course of our case and clinical considerations of anorectal abscesses are discussed.

Spasmolysis therapy after Milligan-Morgan haemorrhoidectomy

Pain after hemorrhoid surgery is the most common postoperative complication, significantly influencing patients' quality of life. Severe postoperative pain may still occur and continues to be the major concern of patients who are unwilling to undergo the surgery. Anal sphincter hypertonicity has been identified as a major influencing factor for increased pain after surgery. Since persistent internal anal sphincter spasm is a major factor responsible for the genesis of pain, relieving internal anal sphincter spasm is considered to be an effective method to ease the pain. Currently, multiple treatments have been used to manage pain after haemorrhoidal surgery, including sphincterotomy, botulinum toxin, glyceryl trinitrate, and calcium channel blockers. Haemorrhoidectomy coupled with spasmolysis therapy can significantly reduce the incidence of postoperative complications and improve the quality of life.

Clinical and microbiological characteristics of perianal infections in adult patients with acute leukemia

Background

Perianal infection is a common problem for patients with acute leukemia. However, neutropenia and bleeding tendency are relatively contraindicated to surgical intervention. The epidemiology, microbiology, clinical manifestations and outcomes of perianal infection in leukemic patients are also rarely discussed.

Method

The medical records of 1102 adult patients with acute leukemia at a tertiary medical center in Taiwan between 2001 and 2010 were retrospectively reviewed and analyzed.

Result

The prevalence of perianal infection was 6.7% (74 of 1102) in adult patients with acute leukemia. Twenty-three (31%) of the 74 patients had recurrent episodes of perianal infections. Patients with acute myeloid leukemia had higher recurrent rates than acute lymphoblastic leukemia patients (p = 0.028). More than half (n = 61, 53%) of the perianal infections were caused by gram-negative bacilli, followed by gram-positive cocci (n = 36, 31%), anaerobes (n = 18, 15%) and Candida (n = 1, 1%) from pus culture. Eighteen patients experienced bacteremia (n = 24) or candidemia (n = 1). Overall 41 (68%) of 60 patients had polymicrobial infection. Escherichia coli (25%) was the most common micro-organism isolated, followed by Enterococcus species (22%), Klebsiella pneumoniae (13%), and Bacteroides species (11%). Twenty-five (34%) of 74 patients received surgical intervention. Acute leukemia patients with surgically managed anal fistulas tended to have fewer recurrences (p = 0.067). Four (5%) patients died within 30 days after diagnosis of perianal infection. Univariate analysis of 30-day survival revealed the elderly (≧ 65 years) (p = 0.015) and patients with shock (p<0.001) had worse outcome. Multivariate analysis showed septic shock to be the independent predictive factor of 30-day crude mortality of perianal infections (p = 0.016).

Conclusion

Perianal infections were common and had high recurrence rate in adult patients with acute leukemia. Empirical broad-spectrum antibiotics with anaerobic coverage should be considered. Shock independently predicted 30-day crude mortality. Surgical intervention for perianal infection remains challenging in patients with acute leukemia.

A liquid-film forming acrylate cream for the treatment of anal pruritus

Pruritus ani is a hidden but frequently occurring clinical condition, with a large impact on patients' quality of life. Currently, therapeutic options are scarce, offering mainly limited success. The authors performed a prospective, open-label, two-centre pilot study to analyse the efficacy and safety of a liquid-film forming acrylate cream for the treatment of pruritus ani and peri-anal skin irritation. A total of 28 patients were included and applied the cream to the cleansed anal and peri-anal skin once daily for a study period of 3-4 weeks. The primary outcome measure was the reduction of pruritis ani, comparing day 0 to day 28 results. For this purpose, a visual analog scale (VAS) was used. Secondary parameters included the physician global assessment score (PGA) of peri-anal skin condition, assessment of patients' quality of life using a specifically designed quality of life scoring tool, and patient satisfaction with the treatment regimen. The application of the acrylate skin protection cream resulted in a fast and substantial improvement of all study parameters, with a high score for patient satisfaction. The cream was well tolerated without any adverse events noted during the study period. The authors' pilot study has generated initial evidence that the acrylate skin protection cream may be effective for the treatment of pruritus ani. However, further randomized controlled studies are needed to confirm the authors' findings.

Identifying the best therapy for chronic anal fissure

Chronic anal fissure (CAF) is a painful tear or crack which occurs in the anoderm. The optimal algorithm of therapy for CAF is still debated. Lateral internal sphincterotomy (LIS) is a surgical treatment, considered as the ‘gold standard’ therapy for CAF. It relieves CAF symptoms with a high rate of healing. Chemical sphincterotomy (CS) with nitrates, calcium blockers or botulinum toxin (BTX) is safe, with the rapid relief of pain, mild side-effects and no risk of surgery or anesthesia, but is a statistically less effective therapy for CAF than LIS. This article considers if aggressive treatment should only be offered to patients who fail pharmacological sphincterotomy. Aspects of anal fissure etiology, epidemiology and pathophysiology are considered with their meaning for further management of CAF. A molecular model of chemical interdependence significant for the chemistry of CAF healing is examined. Its application may influence the development of optimal therapy for CAF. BTX is currently considered the most effective type of CS and discussion in this article scrutinizes this method specifically. Although the effectiveness of BTX vs. LIS has been discussed, the essential focus of the article concerns identifying the best therapy application for anal fissure. Elements are presented which may help us to predict CAF healing. They provide rationale for the expansion of the CAF therapy algorithm. Ethical and economic factors are also considered in brief. As long as the patient is willing to accept the potential risk of fecal incontinence, we have grounds for the ‘gold standard’ (LIS) as the first-line treatment for CAF. We conclude that, when the diagnosis of the anal fissure is established, CS should be considered for both ethical and economic reasons. The author is convinced that a greater understanding and recognition of benign anal disorders by the GP and a proactive involvement at the point of initial diagnosis would facilitate the consideration of CS at an earlier, more practical stage with improved outcomes for the patient.